About The Rowan Tree
The Rowan Tree was established in 2004 by Karen Ritchie, choosing the vibrant seaside town of Budleigh Salterton in Devon for her shop. The ethos has always been to celebrate all that is good in British craftsmanship and International design.
The shop truly reflects Karen’s passion for buying beautiful and fun pieces, with every single corner and shelf bursting with goodies. Her wealth of experience within retail means she has a keen eye for what her customers want throughout the whole year.
Unique, beautiful items created by
designers from all across the UK.
About Karen Ritchie
Karen Richie was born in Stroud Gloucestershire in 1959 and spent her formative years in Warwickshire, although Devon has always been a second home following many summers spent with her Grandparents who lived just outside the sought after seaside town of Budleigh Salterton.
After gaining a BA in History of Art at Leicester University, Karen went on to study in Rome. Her love of art and design has been with her since she was a young girl. Karen then made the move to Leamington Spa working for the fashionable and iconic Casa Fina, nurturing her love of Italian, Portuguese & Spanish ceramics and interior design. She then moved with the Casa Fina chain to Covent Garden in London.
After starting her family, Karen moved to Bath as manager of a Fine Art company, having learnt all aspects of buying and selling, visiting major trade fairs, displaying beautiful crafts and every aspect of running a business.
Summers spent visiting her grandparents in Devon delighted Karen who frequently visited a little shop called Felix Lewis, this mesmerising store captured her heart with the beautiful China & gifts that filled the shelves. Karen would say this is where it all began. One cold winter in 2004 whilst visiting her family, she noticed that her beloved shop was empty and available to lease..
Today Karen lives in Devon with her husband, Luke and their fun loving Italian Spinone, Beulah. Nestled by the sea and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Her life has come full circle and what was once a little store called Felix Lewis is now ‘The Rowan Tree’. This enchanting gem delights locals & visitors from all over the world.
What Is The Rowan Tree Collection?
A boutique emporium packed full of a huge selection of gift ideas, homeware, soft furnishings, jewellery, children’s gifts, clothes, and toys. So whether you are looking for something for the home, a gift for a friend, or family, for the children, or a treat for you, the Rowan Tree will always endeavour to find you that perfect something special.
We sell a wide range of gifts that you may not have seen before, including home accessories, lighting, furniture, crockery, pictures, clocks, children’s clothes, jewellery, scarves, toiletries, cushions, throws, stationery and more. Our range includes many well-known brands such as Emma Bridgewater, Cath Kidston and Voyage. We extend excellent customer service including gift wrap to help make your shopping experience a happy one.